The use of peer-to-peer applications on the University network

The University's Regulations forbid the transfer of copyright material via the University network without the permission of the copyright holder.

The mis-use of copyright material on the University network can lead to significant financial penalties for both the University and the individual responsible.

In addition, the use of software such as BitTorrent or other peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing software can use significant amounts of the University's network bandwidth, resulting in reduced service levels at peak and causing problems for legitimate core University activities (including research and teaching).

FAQs

Can I be exempted from this ban?

Is this because of the Digital Economy Act?

No. The details of how the Digital Economy Act will apply to Universities have not yet been agreed, however the use of P2P on campus was causing problems in two ways. Firstly, it was using up large amounts of staff time in dealing with copyright notices and secondly, the volume of downloads was such as to fill the University's link to the internet, thus prevented legitimate work being done.